A Wartenberg wheel, also called a Wartenberg pinwheel or Wartenberg neurowheel, is a medical device for neurological use. The wheel was designed to test nerve reactions (sensitivity) as it rolled systematically across the skin.
The Wartenberg wheel works by rolling the sharp points of the wheel over the skin’s surface. This stimulation causes a tingling sensation that allows healthcare professionals to assess a patient’s nerve function and response. The wheel is also useful for testing reflexes, particularly in patients with neurological disorders or injuries.